If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dinner, look no further than stuffed shells with sausage. This classic Italian-American dish is packed with flavor—savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, melty mozzarella, and a rich marinara sauce, all baked into tender jumbo pasta shells. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish will satisfy any appetite and become a family favorite.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making sausage stuffed shells, from ingredients to prep tips, variations, storage, and more. Let’s dig in!
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Shells with Sausage
- Flavorful & Filling: The combo of Italian sausage, creamy cheese, and marinara makes it a bold and satisfying dish.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Assemble in advance and bake later. Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
- Great for a Crowd: This recipe can easily be doubled for parties, potlucks, or holiday dinners.
- Freezer-Friendly: Cook once, enjoy twice—freezes beautifully for later meals.
Ingredients for Stuffed Shells with Sausage
Here’s everything you need to make this dish:
For the Shells and Filling:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells (you’ll cook a few extra in case some tear)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ small onion, finely chopped (optional, for extra flavor)
How to Make Stuffed Shells with Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook jumbo shells according to the package instructions but reduce the time by 1-2 minutes so they’re al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside on a tray with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil (and onion if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ricotta cheese
- Egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Parmesan cheese
- Cooked sausage
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Fill each shell with about 1–2 tablespoons of sausage-cheese mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the shells.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is golden.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells with Sausage
- Use a piping bag (or zip-top bag with the tip cut off) to fill shells easily.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—slightly undercooked shells will finish in the oven and hold their shape better.
- Try spicy Italian sausage for a kick, or sweet for a milder dish.
- Make it saucier by adding extra marinara if you like it extra juicy.
Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Here are some tasty variations:
1. Spinach and Sausage Stuffed Shells
Add a handful of chopped fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach, well-drained) to the ricotta mixture for extra greens.
2. Cheesy Three-Meat Version
Combine sausage with cooked ground beef and pancetta or bacon for a protein-packed version.
3. Stuffed Shells with Vodka Sauce
Swap marinara with creamy vodka sauce for a luxurious twist.
4. Vegetarian Stuffed Shells
Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils and keep the cheesy goodness intact.
What to Serve with Stuffed Shells with Sausage
Round out your meal with simple and satisfying sides:
- Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
- Classic Caesar Salad or Arugula Salad
- Roasted Broccoli or Zucchini
- A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Assemble shells (uncooked or fully cooked) and freeze in a foil tray or freezer-safe dish.
- Wrap tightly and store up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake at 375°F until warmed through.
Reheating:
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven, covered, for 20–25 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make stuffed shells with sausage ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. It’s perfect for meal prepping.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely. Use spicy, mild, chicken, or turkey sausage based on your preference. Just make sure it’s cooked before mixing into the filling.
Do I have to use ricotta cheese?
Ricotta is traditional, but you can substitute it with cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and ricotta for a richer filling.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed shells with sausage is more than just comfort food—it’s a dish that brings people together. Rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this baked pasta dish is guaranteed to impress your family or guests without much fuss in the kitchen.
Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the fun variations, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your rotation. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!